How To Use Table Runners At Home

So many of our customers ask us how to use table runners at home. We consider a table runner an accessory and sometimes to best way to spruce up your home is to change up your table linen. It could be that you’re decorating for a birthday party or for Christmas. Either way table runners will add that element of formality and style without the need for a table cloth.

A table runner is typically designed to prevent damage to your table and grab any spills. These days they also add a hugely decorative function and can change the look of your décor. They look fantastic on square, rectangle or round tables and can add dramatic colour and texture if desired. Why not try one on your coffee table or outdoor table for something different?

Here we look at ways to use a table runner around your home and offer top tips for making your selection.

Choosing the right fabric

Just like table cloths, there are loads of styles of table runners available. For a more casual look, you may opt for a cotton or bamboo woven runner that’s easy to care for. For a more traditional look many customer choose lace, especially if it fits in with their home décor. If you’re hosting a significant event silk or velvet runners will offer a level of formality to your table.

Many people keep a few different varieties of table runners aside for different types of events or styling. Letting the occasion dictate what fabric you use will make choosing easy.

Using table runners around the house

There really are no rules for where you can and can’t use table runners. They look terrific thrown over a coffee table as well as across a sideboard or buffet. They certainly add an element of flair to console tables or hallway tables too.

In stores, we merchandise coffee tables with runners as well as round and rectangular dining tables. There are endless options for where you can use a runner. You could even pop one across the end of your bed like we see in hotels!

The best way to run

Again, there’s no specific rule for which way you want your table runner to sit. It can go long ways across your table right down the centre. We like to merchandise by placing two or three runners across the short side of the table which could then act like placemats for six guest. Or you can always add placemats on top for your place settings.

For a more formal look we recommend placing your table runner straight down the middle. This adds a more structured look to your table when entertaining and leaves space for placemats, settings and serving dishes.

Using shorter runners across the short side of the table will still have loads of impact and add plenty of contrast to your tabletop. This way you also get to show off your beautiful dining table and add decorative pieces in between.

Decorating your table runner

Given that table runners dress up or accent your table you can really play around with decorating. You can add candles around centrepieces or floral arrangements on top of plate settings. For a clean and simple look when your table is not in use you can drape one stunning runner across the table. Pop your favourite hurricane or candle arrangement in the centre for a polished look.

Remember, House & Garden stocks a beautiful range of table linen including table runners, placemats and napkins. For the perfect advise on how to use table runners in your home speak to our amazing team in store or online.